Program Overview

Major in Agricultural Biotechnology

The Agricultural Biotechnology major provides students with a comprehensive understanding of genetics, plant pathology, entomology, organic and biochemistry, crops and soil sciences, horticulture, and micro and cell biology. The program emphasizes the development and application of new technology to ensure a safe and abundant food and fiber supply. Hands-on opportunities for students to partake in research are abundant.

Employment and Career Possibilities Within This Major

• Plant Geneticist
• Plant Breeder
• Research/Laboratory Technician
• Plant Pathologist
• Molecular Biologist
• Biotechnologist
• Graduate school, post-graduate studies or advanced degrees

Examples of Required/Preferred Classes for First-Year Students

• Crop_Sci/Hort 102: Cultivated Plants
• Soil_Sci 201: Soil: A Living System
• Biology 106: Intro to Organismal
• Chem 105: Princ. Of Chem I
• EconS 101: Fundamentals of Microeconomics

Required Math

• Math 106: College Algebra and Math 108: Trigonometryor Math 140 Calculus for Life Sciences

Transfer Pathways

Many of our best students attend local community colleges prior to transferring to WSU. Below is a list of suggested WSU courses to take locally and transfer into WSU.

• BIOLOGY 107: Intro to Cell Biology and Genetics
• BIOLOGY 106: Intro to Organismal Biology
• CHEM 105: Principles of Chem I
• CHEM 106: Principles of Chem II
• MATH 106: College Algebra and MATH 108: Trigonometry (or MATH 140: Calculus for Life Scientists)
• ECONS 101: Fundamentals of Microeconomics
• ENGLISH 101: Introductory Writing
• WSU UCORE [DIVR] course
• WSU UCORE [ARTS] course
• WSU UCORE [HUM] course
• STAT 212: Introduction to Statistical Methods

Student Organizations/Clubs Associated with this Major

• Horticulture Club
• Viticulture and Enology Club
• Minorities in Agriculture and Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS)

Information for New students

This is a Bachelor of Science Degree in Integrated Plant Sciences with a major in Agricultural Biotechnology. An internship is required in this major. Students will work with their advisor to locate an appropriate internship. It is managed by the Department of Horticulture.

Student Perspective

Agricultural Biotechnology has allowed me to learn everything from how DNA works to how to grow crops. Now I’m getting to combine that information to create better crops that will feed the world’s growing population.

Program Details

The program is offered by the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) at Washington State University. The major provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepares them for careers in agricultural biotechnology.

Relevant Departments

• Horticulture Department
• Crop and Soil Sciences Department
• Plant Pathology Department
• Entomology Department

Additional Information

The program emphasizes hands-on research opportunities and provides students with a well-rounded education in agricultural biotechnology. Students can expect to gain a deep understanding of the field and develop skills that will prepare them for successful careers.